Resurrected Living"What are you going to do with your new resurrected life? This is the heroic question." Richard Rohr

Holiday Reminders

The holidays can be hard for some people for various reasons. It is good for us to be aware of this and to do what we can to help. Here are some things to be on the lookout for this time of year.

Lonely – Some are lonely because they don’t have anyone to spend the holidays with. This could be a person who is single, widowed, or is living away from family. You could help by including them in your holiday plans. Invite them to a party or have them over for a meal. Make sure no one spends the holidays alone.

Grieving – We tend to think of the holidays as being a time of joy, but for some, it is a time of sadness. The holidays are difficult for people who have recently lost a loved one. Be mindful of this and considerate to those who may not feel like celebrating. Let them know it is ok to be sad. Be present with them as they grieve.

In Need – There are families in every community who cannot afford a Christmas meal or gifts for their children. If you know of such a family, help them out. This can be embarrassing, so try to be discreet. Do as Jesus tells us to do in Matthew 6:4 and give in secret. Leave an envelope underneath the door, send an anonymous letter, or drop off some wrapped presents on their doorstep.

Overspenders – One of the reasons some people feel burdened is because they go into debt buying presents for everyone. It is crucial that presents not become the focus of the holidays. Things such as spending time with family, sharing a meal together, and focusing on what God has done for us are much more important than presents. If you know someone who feels pressured into buying presents, free them of this burden by letting them know it’s not necessary.

Tense Situations – The holidays are the only time some family members see one another. This can be a joyous occasion, but it can also be a tense one because of hurt feelings or other unfortunate circumstances. Be a peacemaker. If it is possible, work to mend broken relationships. Listen to those who have been hurt. Be a calming presence if a situation becomes tense.

“Let each of you look not only to his own interests, but also to the interests of others.” (Philippians 2:4)